New Nigeria coach Éric Sékou Chelle promises attacking football

Éric Sékou Chelle has begun his tenure as coach of Nigeria's men's national team with a promise to play an attacking style of football as he works towards pulling the Super Eagles' World Cup chestnuts from the fire.

The Franco-Malian, who was officially presented by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Monday, says he is aware of the expectations of Nigerians -- and is prepared for them.

"Football is about scoring goals, I love attacking football, this is my philosophy," Sékou Chelle said at Monday's ceremony. "I know the expectations of Nigerians, and I will settle down and work diligently with assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the FIFA World Cup."

"I want to thank my agent, the NFF, and indeed all Nigerians, for this big opportunity. Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted.

"To coach the most populous Black nation in the world is an honour. For me, it is the best nation in Africa. I am elated and will do my utmost best. I believe Nigeria can qualify for the World Cup."

Sékou Chelle, who has a French father but played for Mali at international level, making five appearances, said that he had always had a soft spot for the Super Eagles, whose chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup are teetering after poor early qualifying results.

The Super Eagles need to win all six of their remaining games to guarantee qualification, and hope other teams in the group stumble. Sékou Chelle says they need to play high-pressure football.

"When I was growing up, this was my favourite team," he said. "I want to be the best. I need to talk to the players. We need to work harder and play high-pressure football. Time is not the best friend of every coach, but if you accept the risk you need to take responsibility."

NFF president Ibrahim Musa Gusau said the coach had signed a two-year contract, with the option of another year if he qualified the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals

"I see in the new head coach the right spirit and the right attitude, and I have faith that he will take the Super Eagles to the next level," Gusau said. "He sees the job of leading the Super Eagles as his dream job, and that is a huge motivation in itself.

"Coach [Sékou Chelle] recognizes and appreciates what is ahead of him, and he says he loves the challenge. We will be there giving him the necessary support all the way."

Despite the vote of confidence from the NFF, Sékou Chelle's appointment has been met with a rash of criticism from some former Nigeria internationals, including high-profile names such as two-time African Player of the Year Nwankwo Kanu and Austin Okocha.

The major arguments are that if the NFF could not hire a high-profile foreign coach they should have left Austin Eguavoen in the role or hired a Nigerian.

In response, 1997 African Player of the Year Victor Ikpeba, a member of the NFF's technical committee that recommended Sékou Chelle, said that no process would have been perfect.

"The appointment of a coach for the Super Eagles will always generate a lot of interest," Ikpeba said. "This is one of the biggest countries in Africa, and that's the passion that comes with the national team.

"Even if we had appointed Pep Guardiola, there would still be complaints. If there are no arguments, there won't be success."

Ikpeba also had some broadsides for his former teammates over their criticism of the appointment

"When Finidi George had his issues in the Super Eagles, how many ex-internationals came out to support him? Eguavoen did a remarkable job to qualify us for the [Africa Cup of Nations] but now a decision has been made and we have to support the new man.

"Eric Chelle is a young coach who will succeed with our support. We're in a tight corner in the World Cup qualifying campaign, and we must back him to get the best out of the players, who are the main actors in this situation."

Sékou Chelle, who becomes the 36th man to coach the Super Eagles, and the first non-Nigerian African, has already begun work, taking a supervisory role in the Super Eagles' African Nations Championship team preparing for the 2016 tournament in Rwanda.

By Colin Udoh, ESPN

Related story: Nigeria make historic hire of Sékou Chelle to manage Super Eagles

Ex- Super Eagles star Odemwingie targets Olympic gold in Golf for Nigeria

Former Super Eagles forward Osaze Odemwingie has revealed his ambition of seeing Nigeria represented in golf at the Olympics.

The former West Brom star, who transitioned to professional golf after retiring from football in 2018 is determined to elevate the sport in his home country and inspire a new generation of Nigerian golfers.

Odemwingie began playing golf towards the end of his Premier League career at West Bromwich Albion. He graduated from the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) school in June 2024.

With golf's reintroduction to the Olympics in 2016, he sees a unique opportunity for Nigeria.
What Odemwingie said
“If I cannot play as a golfer, I can at least be in the team of a golfer who will play there,” he told BBC Sport Africa.

He continued, “I want to introduce people to the game and build a generation of golfers, from Nigeria in particular, that will participate in the Olympics.”

Odemwingie understands the prestige of Olympic competition, having been part of the Nigerian team that won silver in men's football at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.

Referencing his own medal and the gold won by Nigeria in Atlanta '96, he stated, “The medal is very well respected. It’s a way to sell the project to our state government.”

Beyond the Olympics, Odemwingie is focused on promoting golf within Nigeria. He plans to engage with government officials and corporations to highlight the benefits of the sport and establish a golf academy in Benin City.

“If we have more golf courses, there will be tourism. Kids can get scholarships in good countries. If somebody sees an opportunity, they can latch on to [it] and give themselves an amazing life. It’s like any other sport. The earlier you start, you have a chance to become an elite,” he explained.

Odemwingie’s football career saw him play for Bendel Insurance in Nigeria before moving to Europe, where he played for clubs including La Louviere, Lille, Lokomotiv Moscow, West Bromwich Albion, Cardiff City, Stoke City, Bristol City, Rotherham United, and Madura United in Indonesia.

He also earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles, scoring 11 goals.

By Seye Omidiora, PulseSports

Related story: Former Super Eagle star Odemwingie becomes certified Professional golf player

Nigeria make historic hire of Sékou Chelle to manage Super Eagles

 

In a historic move, Nigeria have named former Mali coach Éric Sékou Chelle as the new manager of the men's senior national team, the Super Eagles announced on Monday.

Sékou Chelle, from Mali, will make history as the first non-Nigerian African to coach the Super Eagles. The 47-year-old came to the attention of Nigerian football fans last year when he led Mali to their first victory over the Super Eagles in 50 years of contests between the sides.

His Mali side defeated Finidi George's Eagles 2-0 in a friendly in March 2024.

A statement from Nigeria Football Federation communications director Ademola Olajire said: "The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as head coach of Nigeria's senior men national football team, Super Eagles.

"His appointment is with immediate effect, and he has the responsibility of guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, with the next round of matches [Matchdays 5 and 6] taking place in March."

Born in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother, Sékou Chelle holds three nationalities -- Mali, Ivory Coast and France -- and played the majority of his career in France, where he featured for FC Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais.

He represented Mali at international level, making five appearances for the national team.

His coaching career included spells at GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne and MC Oran. He was appointed Mali head coach in 2022, and he took them within a minute of a place in the semifinals at the Africa Cup of Nations.

His wards led hosts and eventual winners Ivory Coast for most of the game before conceding an equaliser in the last minute of regulation time, and eventually losing 2-1 after extra-time -- with Chelle's reaction turning into a viral meme.

Sékou Chelle was fired by Mali in June 2024, days after they were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Madagascar in a Group I World Cup qualifier in Johannesburg.

By Colin Udoh, ESPN

Ademola Lookman named African players of the year

Nigeria's Ademola Lookman has been crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year at the Confederation of African Football (Caf) Awards in Marrakesh.

The Atalanta forward saw off competition from Ivory Coast's Simon Adingra, Guinea's Serhou Guirassy, Achraf Hakimi of Morocco and South Africa's Ronwen Williams.

Lookman is the second consecutive Nigerian to claim the award after Victor Osimhen in 2023.

Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda made history as the first Zambian to win the women's prize, finishing ahead of Moroccan Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria's Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The winners are voted for by a panel of experts which includes members of Caf's technical committee plus African media professionals, players and coaches.

Lookman's standout year

Lookman, 27, was hot favourite to pick up the award for the first time in his career after an impressive 2023-24 season.

He played a key role in helping his Italian club win the first European trophy in their history with a memorable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen - making him the sixth player to score a treble in a European club final and the first since 1975.

On the international scene, Lookman was named in the team of the tournament at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, scoring three goals as the Super Eagles finished as runners-up to the hosts in February.

The former Everton, Fulham and Leicester City player was also the only African on this year's men's Ballon d'Or shortlist, finishing 14th.

Lookman has again proved instrumental for Atalanta this season, scoring eight goals in Serie A to help his team go top of the table.

BBC

Osimhen strike books Nigeria place at Africa Cup of Nations

A late equaliser from Victor Osimhen stamped Nigeria's ticket for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday while Tunisia also booked their place with a 3-2 win over Madagascar.

In spite of not playing on Thursday, other results also saw South Africa, Gabon and Uganda secure places at the 24-nation showcase of African football, which kicks off in Morocco on December 21 next year.

Sudan missed a chance to qualify after a shock 4-0 loss to Niger -- a result which offered a glimmer of hope to Ghana ahead of a must-win match in Angola on Friday.

Nigeria were trailing against Benin in Group D before reigning African Footballer of the Year Osimhen equalised nine minutes from time to secure a 1-1 draw in Abidjan.

Mohamed Tijani had put Benin ahead after 16 minutes as they sought to repeat a shock triumph over Nigeria in a 2026 World Cup qualifier at the same stadium last year.

Nigeria top the table with 11 points after five rounds, leaving Benin (seven), Rwanda (five) and Libya (four) to fight for the second qualification place.

Nigeria host Rwanda on Monday at the same time as Libya will have home advantage over Benin. Libya got back into contention by beating Rwanda 1-0 through a late Fahd Mohamed goal in Kigali.

A thrilling 3-2 victory for South Sudan over Congo Brazzaville in Juba ensured Uganda and South Africa would qualify from Group K before they meet on Friday in Kampala.

Congo, needing maximum points to keep their slim hopes alive, twice surrendered the lead before being reduced to 10 men on 78 minutes when Bryan Passi was sent off.

South Sudan took full advantage of having an extra man to snatch victory soon after through substitute Data Elly.

- Seesaw struggle -

Ali al Abdi scored in the third minute of added time to give 10-man Tunisia a 3-2 victory over Madagascar in Pretoria and qualification from Group A.

In a seesaw struggle, Madagascar twice equalised before gaining a late second-half advantage when Wajdi Kechrida was red-carded.

But the Indian Ocean islanders fell behind again four minutes later and defeat stretched a winless run in AFCON qualifiers to 15 matches.

Comoros, shock winners over Tunisia last month, will fill the other qualifying place from the section if they beat the Gambia on Friday.

Sudan needed one point from a clash with Niger in Lome to clinch qualification from Group F, and eliminate four-time champions Ghana.

But the east Africans fell behind after only six minutes when Daniel Sosah scored, and he converted a penalty in first-half added time to widen the lead to three goals.

There was no way back for the rattled Sudanese in the second half with Ousseini Badamassi completing the rout by scoring on 51 minutes.

Ghana must defeat leaders Angola in Luanda, and Niger in Accra on Monday, and hope Angola beat Sudan if they are to avoid the humiliation of failing to qualify.

An unbeaten run by Burkina Faso in Group L ended when they fell 1-0 to 2022 AFCON champions Senegal in Bamako. Habib Diarra scored the lone goal seven minutes from time.

There are 10 qualifiers scheduled for Friday when Botswana, Comoros, Mali, Mozambique, Sudan, Zambia and Zimbabwe could qualify.

Should all seven secure berths, it would leave just two qualifying places up for grabs.

Guinea could fill one on Saturday if they beat the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group H and Tanzania fail to take maximum points against Ethiopia.

Benin, Rwanda or Libya would complete the line-up.

Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, DR Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ivory Coast and Senegal had secured places before Thursday.

Morocco are automatic participants as hosts, but are taking part in qualifying to gain competitive match practice.

AFP

CAF awards Super Eagles 3 points, 3 goals against Libya

The Confederation of African Football, CAF, on Saturday awarded three points and three goals to the Super Eagles following the botched 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya.

The Super Eagles consolidated their top position in the group following the verdict.

The Nigerian side now have 10 points from four matches, four points clear of nearest rivals Benin.

Libya remain bottom of the group with one point.

A draw with Benin in Abidjan next month will qualify the Super Eagles for the 2025 AFCON to be hosted by Morocco in December 2025.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also fined the Libya Football Federation $50,000.

The fine is to be paid within 60 days of notification of the decision.

Daily Post

Related story: Video - Libya blames Nigeria for abandoned AFCON clash in Benghazi

Nigeria Football team boycotts Africa Cup qualifier after being stranded at Libya airport

 

Video - Libya blames Nigeria for abandoned AFCON clash in Benghazi

The Libyan Football Federation says the flight delays that affected the Super Eagles, which ultimately led to the abandonment of their fixture in Benghazi, were caused by routine air traffic and logistical challenges rather than deliberate foul play. The federation also highlighted the fact that the Mediterranean Knights of Libya also faced challenges after arriving in Nigeria for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last week. 

CGTN

Related story: Video - Nigerians react to abandoned AFCON clash against Libya

Nigeria Football team boycotts Africa Cup qualifier after being stranded at Libya airport

 

Video - Nigerians react to abandoned AFCON clash against Libya

The aborted 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Libya and Nigeria that was due to be played in Benghazi earlier this week elicited sharp reaction from Nigerians. The Nigerian Football Federation pulled the Super Eagles out of the match after the team was allegedly stranded for hours without basic necessities at an airport in Tripoli. 

CGTN

Related story: Nigeria Football team boycotts Africa Cup qualifier after being stranded at Libya airport

 

Leverkusen's Boniface only 'slightly injured' after car accident

Bayer Leverkusen and Nigeria striker Victor Boniface on Sunday shared video footage and photos of his smashed car after an accident.

The forward can be seen looking into the camera and then showing what appears to be his arm dripping with blood.

Other images show a black sports car which appears to have been destroyed in an accident. The post has since been deleted.

German tabloid Bild reported Sunday Boniface is "doing well considering the circumstances and is only slightly injured", citing a source close to the striker.

Boniface wrote on social media on Sunday "god is the greatest" and "god says my time hasn't come."

The forward's club Leverkusen are yet to comment publicly on the news.

The 23-year-old striker joined Leverkusen last season and played a key role as the club broke through for an unbeaten league and cup double -- their first ever Bundesliga win -- while receiving his debut Nigeria call-up.

This season he has seven goals in 10 games in all competitions. On Saturday, he missed a penalty but headed in the winner in a 2-1 home victory over Eintracht Frankfurt.

Leverkusen are away at French club Brest in the Champions League on Wednesday.

SuperSport

Video - Nigeria hopes for better finish at U-17 Women's World Cup

The Flamingoes, who finished third in the last edition of the tournament in India in 2022, completed preparations for the upcoming competition in the Dominican Republic. The team is placed in Group alongside the hosts, Ecuador and New Zealand.

CGTN

Nigeria Football team boycotts Africa Cup qualifier after being stranded at Libya airport

Nigeria’s soccer players returned to their country dancing and singing on Monday after boycotting their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya where they were stranded overnight at Al Abraq Airport in what the team captain described as “mind games.”

Though authorities in Libya denied it was sabotage, the Confederation of African Football which organizes the competition said it will investigate the “disturbing and unacceptable experiences” of Nigeria.

The Super Eagles were scheduled to play the Group D game on Tuesday. Nigeria won 1-0 when the teams played on Friday, when similar accusations of sabotage from the Libya team came after they were delayed at a Nigerian airport.

Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong said the plane was due to land at Benghazi Airport but was diverted at the last minute to Al Abraq some 220 kilometers (130 miles) away.

“The Libyan government rescinded our approved landing in Benghazi with no reason,” Troost-Ekong said on X. “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food or drink. All to play mind games. As the captain, together with the team, we have decided that we will not play this game.”

The Libyan Football Federation said it regretted the flight diversion, adding: “It is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks or logistical challenges that affect international air travel,” it said on X.

CAF said it referred the incident to its disciplinary board which will take “appropriate action against those who violated” its rules.

Pictures posted online by the players showed some of them lying on airport seats, their luggage beside them and with no other passengers in sight. By Monday morning, some of them were asleep.

Nigerian Football Federation spokesman Ademola Olajire said the team spent 19 hours at the Libyan airport and they were prevented from leaving the facility to board the buses that Nigerian officials eventually hired.

“At past midnight, it was learnt that there had been word from ‘higher authorities’ that the Nigeria delegation should be delayed for a minimum of 10 hours at the airport for what they falsely claimed was done to their team in Nigeria,” Olajire said without elaborating.

The Nigerian players and officials eventually resorted to games and music to play down their anger and frustration, he said.

Among the players in Nigeria’s squad were Ademola Lookman, who scored a hat trick for Atalanta in the Europa League final last season and is on the Ballon d’Or shortlist, and Victor Boniface, a striker for German champion Bayer Leverkusen.

English Premier League players Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Taiwo Awoniyi and Wilfred Ndidi were also in the team that beat Libya 1-0 on Friday.

The Libya team accused Nigeria of maltreatment ahead of the first leg, an allegation the Nigerian federation denied.

Libya captain Faisal Al-Badri said they were delayed “from one city to another” for three hours after their bags were searched, and before they were transported on a road trip to the city where the match was played. He had called for “reciprocity.”

Nigeria sports minister John Owan Enoh said he instructed the soccer federation to send a formal complaint to CAF. “This must be on record and thoroughly addressed,” he said in a statement.

By Chinedu Asasdu, AP

Video - Nigerian flamingoes set for the FIFA Under 17 Women's World Cup

The Nigerian Flamingoes have wrapped up their preparations for the eighth FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup set for the Dominican Republic from next week. They head into the competition as one of the strong contenders from Africa after finishing the third in the previous edition.

CGTN

Former Nigeria national team goalkeeper passes away

 Former Nigeria national team goalkeeper Peter “Apo” Fregene has sadly passed away after a prolonged battle with health issues.

He was 77 years old.

Fregene, a 1968 Olympian, died peacefully in the presence of his wife, Tina, and two children.

Segun Odegbami, a renowned sports journalist and former Nigerian international, confirmed the development.

Odegbami, a former national team captain, expressed gratitude to the numerous individuals who supported Fregene’s treatment until his eventual death.

“On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sports persons, his family, friends, fans and a few incredible Nigerians that quietly rallied round and, with their support, prayers and the will of the Creator of the Universe, kept him alive until this night, I say a big ‘thank you’,” Odegbami wrote on his Facebook Page.

Fregene’s health struggles had sparked widespread concern, prompting an outpouring of support from the sports community.

Frantic effort to save Fregene

PREMIUM TIMES reported how three generous Nigerians volunteered to support his treatment at Obule Medical Centre in Sapele, Delta State.

This was on the heels of Odegbami’s initial appeal for assistance, sharing a distressing photo highlighting Fregene’s dire situation.

He noted that repeated appeals to well-known philanthropists had yielded support in the past but expressed concern that these individuals may be exhausted from continually supporting Nigerian sports heroes in need.

The sports community’s response brought comfort to Fregene’s family, with Odegbami thanking Nigerians for their response to the “humble cry of their hero currently in distress.”

However, he also lamented the government’s neglect of sports, leaving veterans like Fregene vulnerable.

Odegbami posed a poignant question: “Why can’t we set up a simple welfare scheme for active and retired athletes to take care of our declining health in old age?”

This highlights the need for systemic support for Nigeria’s sports heroes.

As the football community mourns Fregene’s passing, his legacy as a dedicated athlete and Nigerian icon will be remembered.

Mr Odegbami’s final words to Fregene reads:

“Good night ‘Apo’.

“Rest, my friend, rest in peace, finally!” 

By Tunde Eludini, Premium Times

Luton confirm signing of former Chelsea and Nigeria winger Victor Moses on free transfer

Former Chelsea and Liverpool winger Victor Moses has joined Luton on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old has signed a permanent contract at Kenilworth Road, subject to international clearance, having spent the last four years at Spartak Moscow after initially moving to Russia on loan from the Blues in 2020.

Moses told the Hatters' website: "I'm looking forward to it. I had a few offers from Europe, but I said to my agent that I set my mind on staying over here, and here we are. I'm very pleased and honoured to be at this club and I just can't wait to get going.

"I spoke to Rob (Edwards, manager) before I came, I spoke to the directors and they told me the plan and the history of the club, and I just want to be part of the success.

"I want to come here and enjoy my football, work hard for the club and for the team, and get back to where we belong in the Premier League."

After starting his career with Palace and then spending two and half years with Wigan, Moses secured a move to Chelsea in 2012 and was part of the Europa League-winning squad in his first season at Stamford Bridge.

The former England youth and Nigeria senior international also had loan spells at Liverpool, Stoke, West Ham, Fenerbahce and Inter Milan before making the permanent move to Spartak Moscow in 2021.

Edwards said: "Victor is one we've been talking to for quite a while. He trained with us last week and played 60 minutes in a behind-closed-doors game, and we made a decision because we think he's able to come in and help us.

"He gives us more strength in depth and versatility, because he's someone who can play both sides or as a number 10.

"He's played for so many different clubs in different ways and shapes, and under different managers, so he's tactically aware. We think he's someone who can provide some really good competition for us."

Yahoo Sports

Video - Nigeria vs Rwanda Highlights - AFCON Qualifiers

 

Nigeria appoint former Stuttgart boss Labbadia

Nigeria have appointed former Stuttgart boss Bruno Labbadia as their new men's head coach ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The 58-year-old German was interviewed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Thursday after talks with Swede Janne Andersson and Frenchman Herve Renard collapsed.

BBC Sport Africa can confirm that a contract with the German has not as yet been signed.

Labbadia’s first game in charge is scheduled to be the Nations Cup qualifier against Benin in Uyo on 7 September before the three-time African champions travel to Rwanda three days later.

Gustavo Poyet, Aitor Karanka and Fabio Cannavaro were the other contenders interviewed late in the day by the NFF.
A desperate choice

Former Sweden coach Andersson, 61, had been in talks with the NFF and looked the frontrunner to take charge with compatriot Peter Wettergren as his assistant.

But the Swede was only available in November due to "personal commitments".

Despite accepting a lucrative offer, two-time Nations Cup winner Renard, 55, failed to make plans for signing his contract, forcing the NFF to look elsewhere as they searched for Finidi George’s successor.

Former Super Eagles forward George stepped down earlier this year only two matches into a two-year contract following a poor start to World Cup qualification.

The failure to land Renard or Andersson came as a huge blow to NFF president Ibrahim Gusau, who had been negotiating intensely with both camps.

In a race against time, the NFF opened talks with Labbadia, former Sunderland, Brighton and Greece manager Poyet, Karanka, who had spells in charge of Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough, and former Italy captain Cannavaro.

But Labbadia, who holds a UEFA Pro License and previously managed Hertha Berlin, Wolfsburg, Hamburg and Bayer Leverkusen in his homeland, was the preferred choice.

In a statement, NFF general secretary Mohammed Sanusi said: “The NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr Bruno Labbadia as the head coach of the Super Eagles. The appointment is with immediate effect."
Nigeria turn to Germany again

Labbadia is the sixth German to take charge of the Super Eagles, following Karl-Heinz Marotzke (who had two stints between 1970 and 1974), Gottlieb Goller (1981), Manfred Honer (1988-1989), Berti Vogts (2007-2008) and Gernot Rohr (2016-2021).

But he will have his work cut out to manage expectations.

What seemed to many like a comfortable World Cup qualifying draw has proven to be more difficult than expected, with unfancied Rwanda leading the way in Group C and only Zimbabwe boasting a worse record than Nigeria after four rounds of the 10-game campaign.

He will also need to immediately get the media and a jaded fanbase onside.

There is currently no permanent home ground for men's and women's national teams, with recent fixtures mostly hosted in Uyo by default as the Godswill Akpabio Stadium is the only ground that satisfies the Confederation of African Football's requirements for international football.

Similarly, there is no bespoke training facility in the vein of England's St George’s Park, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI training complex or France's Clairefontaine, and arrangements are typically made on an ad-hoc basis.

There is also the issue of players being owed allowances and match bonuses, something that persists within the current squad.

Labbadia is now faced with two important qualification campaigns for the 2025 Nations Cup and 2026 World Cup.

He will have little time to get to know his players but immediate results will still be expected.

By Oluwashina Okeleji, BBC

Newcastle signs 21-year-old Nigeria-eligible striker, Osula

English Premier League side, Newcastle United, have signed Nigeria-eligible forward, William Osula from Sheffield United for an undisclosed fee, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 21-year-old joins The Magpies after relegating with Sheffield United last season where he made 21 league appearances, averaging 38 minutes of football per game.

He signs for Eddie Howe’s side as they look to bolster their attack after dealing with multiple injuries to Aleksandar Isak and Callum Wilson last season.

Osula plays largely as a centre-forward, but can also play as a winger due to the blistering pace possesses. Speaking at his unveiling, he revealed how delighted he was to join the club.

“I’m very happy to be here. It’s a big club, a great club, so I’m very happy for the opportunity to join Newcastle United. It’s a great opportunity, and as soon as I heard about Newcastle’s interest, I knew I had to take the chance to join this club if it came. It has come, and I’m really happy to be here,” the Danish attacker said in quotes revealed by Newcastle’s website.

Osula was born in Denmark to a Danish mother and a Nigerian father and moved to England at a young age. He was called up to a training camp for the Denmark U19s in February 2022 and has gone on to make five appearances for their youth team since then. He is eligible to play for England and the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the future.

The Sun

Former Super Eagle star Odemwingie becomes certified Professional golf player

After a blistering career in football, which saw him playing at the very highest level at the World Cup for Nigeria and at the Premier League as a club player, former Nigerian international Osaze Odemwingie has achieved a new milestone by becoming a Professional Golfers’ Association, PGA- certified golfer.

This feat marks a significant transition for the former football star, who has now joined the ranks of those who successfully made the switch from the football pitch to the golf course.

Speaking during his graduation, Odemwingie expressed delight at moving from a team sport like football into an individual sport like golf, and he also spoke highly of the life lessons he has learnt on the way to becoming PGA certified.


In a video which has since gone viral on X, Odemwingie said: “I am really proud of myself and my friends that are graduating as well.

It’s a long journey, I fell in love with the game, I played a lot of pro-ams as an amateur . I am coming from a football background where I had a decent level of achievement in a group sport now it’s a different sport sometimes you can be lonely in golf, just you and your caddie if you have one.”

While golf could be a lonely sport, the camaraderie spirit at PGA is really cherished by Odemwingie

“… but the PGA itself feels like a family, and seeing what the PGA professionals enjoy the moment the opportunity came my game became as good as an average pro.


“I passed the playing ability test and I was accepted into the programme and I was as excited as I am today (graduating). It is motivating in itself being around people who want to achieve new things .”

Odemwingie said he considers it a worthwhile experience going through the PGA as the lessons learnt will make him a better man and also pass on to his children.
A stellar football career

Aside from his laudable feats playing in Russia and France, Odemwingie had an illustrious football career, playing for top-tier clubs like West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City, and Cardiff City in the English Premier League, where he netted 30 goals.

He also represented the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, at major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations, World Cup and even at the Olympic Games, where he proudly won a medal for Nigeria.

For the national team, Odemwingie earned 63 caps and scored 11 goals. His impressive skills on the field earned him a reputation as a pacey and skillful winger.
Inspirational transition

Odemwingie’s journey to becoming a PGA-certified golfer is an inspiration to many. He discovered his passion for golf during his football days and has since dedicated himself to mastering the sport.

His hard work and dedication have paid off, as he has now joined the ranks of professional golfers.
Not alone

Odemwingie is not the only skillful athlete to have made the transition from football to golf. Other notable examples include Chelsea legend Andriy Shevchenko, who has been an avid golfer and has participated in several professional golf tournaments.

Gianluca Zambrotta, the ex-Italian footballer and World Cup winner, has also pursued a career in golf, competing in various tournaments and events.

Lately, Gareth Bale has also been making waves on the golf course after announcing his retirement from football after an illustrious career with the Welsh national team and majorly with Real Madrid.

By Tunde Eludini, Premium Times 

Related story: Osaze Odemwingie quits national team

Super Eagles drop eight places in FIFA ranking

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have dropped eight places in the FIFA rankings since the last update on 4 April. During this period, the Eagles struggled in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, drawing 1-1 with South Africa on 7 June and losing 1-2 to Benin on 10 June.

Following these setbacks, their new manager, Finidi George, resigned after the Nigeria Football Federation announced its intention to hire a new foreign technical adviser.

In Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Cote d’Ivoire each improved one spot, while Senegal dropped one spot.


The Atlas Lions are the highest-ranked African team at No. 12, followed by Senegal’s Teranga Lions at 18, Egypt’s Pharaohs at 36, the African champions Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire at 37, and the Super Eagles rounding out Africa’s top five at 38.

According to the FIFA release, “the top three, however, remain unshakeable. Argentina (1st) retains their place at the summit, with France (2nd) and Belgium (3rd) hot on their heels. But there is movement behind them, as Brazil (4th, up 1) and England (5th, down 1) swap places.

“Meanwhile, Portugal (6th), the Netherlands (7th), and Spain (8th) consolidate their spots in the top ten, while Croatia (9th, up 1) overtake Italy (10th, down 1), who nonetheless hold onto a place among the leading pack.”

These rankings are expected to change further this month, with the Euro Championship and Copa America taking place.

By Jide Alaka, Premium Times

Finidi George Resigns as Super Eagles coach

Finidi George, former head coach of the Super Eagles, has attributed his resignation to the decision of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to hire a foreign technical adviser.

Details from his resignation letter, published by The Eagleonline, reveal Finidi’s willingness to stay on despite the team’s underwhelming performance in his initial official matches.

He expressed confidence in his ability to get the Eagles back on track, even amidst their precarious situation due to a winless qualifying campaign.


Finidi’s tenure began with a challenging 1-1 draw against South Africa in Uyo.

Hopes for a quick turnaround were dashed by a disheartening 2-1 defeat to Benin in Abidjan, further complicating the Super Eagles’ position in Group C with only three points after four games.

“While the recent qualifying results haven’t been ideal,” Finidi wrote, “I remained committed to guiding our World Cup qualification campaign back on course.”
 

Deal Breaker

However, the NFF’s decision to appoint a foreign Technical Adviser indicated a lack of confidence in Finidi’s ability to secure the team’s World Cup qualification.


This move proved to be a deal breaker for Finidi, who was barely two months into his contract.

“Given the recent changes to the technical crew,” Finidi stated, “I believe it’s time for me to step aside.”

Despite his brief tenure, Finidi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

“I am writing to inform you of my decision to step down as head coach of the Super Eagles. This decision is made in light of the recent changes to the team’s technical staff. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire NFF leadership, the sports ministry, and the Nigerian people for the chance to serve as the Super Eagles’ head coach. Please be assured of my unwavering support for the team, and I wish us all the best in the future,” he wrote.
 

Decorated player

A decorated player himself, Finidi was part of the revered ‘Golden Generation’ that triumphed in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and captivated audiences during Nigeria’s debut at the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

He amassed 62 caps for Nigeria, participating in both the 1994 and 1998 World Cups. His trophy cabinet boasts gold, silver, and bronze medals from the 1992, 1994, 2000, and 2002 AFCON tournaments.

Finidi is also one of the very few Nigerian players to have lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Prior to his appointment as manager of the national team, Finidi managed Enyimba International in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL), leading them to the NPFL title in his second season.

By Tunde Eludini, Premium Times